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Contra Costa Upgrades 365 Intersections for a Smarter, Safer Traffic Network
Contra Costa County is taking a major step toward a more connected transportation system by upgrading approximately 365 intersections with modern, intelligent traffic signal technology.
The $30.8 million countywide project will bring older traffic signals up to current standards and allow them to work together as a coordinated system. Instead of operating independently, signals will be able to share information, respond to real-time conditions, and give local agencies better tools to manage traffic more safely and efficiently.
These upgrades go beyond basic vehicle detection. Depending on location needs, improvements may include signal synchronization, pedestrian and bicycle detection, transit signal priority, emergency vehicle preemption, enhanced communications, remote monitoring, and backup power. Together, these features will help improve safety for all users while reducing delays and unnecessary stops along key corridors.
The project is funded through a strong partnership using local Measure J funds, federal OBAG 3 funding, state support, and local agency contributions. It reflects collaboration among the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA), MTC, Contra Costa County, 19 cities and towns, and transit and public works partners across the region.
Great appreciation to Congressman Mark DeSaulnier for his continued leadership in securing federal transportation investments, as well as to the Town of Danville for hosting the event and supporting early project development.
When complete, the system will help create safer crossings, smoother travel, and better coordination across Contra Costa, making everyday trips more reliable for residents, commuters, and businesses alike.
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Supervisor Andersen joined with Danville Councilmember Renee Morgan, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, Councilmember Mark Belotz, Mayor Newell Arnerich, and Councilmember Karen Stepper at Wednesday’s Smart Signal event.
Click here to learn more about the Smart Signal Project.
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Supervisor Andersen Provides County Update to Moraga Valley Kiwanis
Supervisor Andersen was invited by the Moraga Valley Kiwanis Club early Thursday morning to provide an update on important issues and initiatives taking place throughout Contra Costa County. Supervisor Andersen's presentation included information on the County Budget, transportation improvements, public safety, current ballot measures, development updates, and a variety of other current issues.
The morning started with a presentation of two scholarships to local students, and two donations, one to Meals on Wheels and the other to Siesta Valley Foundation. Supervisor Andersen appreciates the Moraga Valley Kiwanis Club for its longstanding commitment to community service and civic engagement, and thanks members for their continued efforts to support local families, students, and community programs.
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Supervisor Andersen pictured with Moraga Kiwanis President Ashley Coates, alongside Kiwanis member Kayce Rane
and her daughter, Natalie.
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Kiwanis member Sam Sperry crafted a fun and creative introduction for Supervisor Andersen by writing special lyrics sung to the tune of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” The clever performance brought smiles to attendees and added a
memorable touch to the event.
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Invasive Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter Found on Plants Sold at Multiple County Locations
The Department of Agriculture/Weights & Measures is alerting residents after the invasive glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS) was found on grapevines sold at five Costco stores in Contra Costa County. The issue is part of a larger statewide nursery shipment affecting several California counties.
Approximately 200 plants were sold before the infestation was discovered. The grapevines were sold at Costco locations in Danville, Concord, Brentwood, Richmond, and Antioch. The remaining plants were destroyed after inspectors confirmed the presence of the invasive pest.
County officials are working with state agencies and other counties to locate plants that may have been purchased and planted in home landscapes. Costco is also contacting customers who purchased the plants and asking them to reach out to the Contra Costa County Department of Agriculture/Weights & Measures.
Residents who purchased grapevines after April 21st from Costco stores in Danville, Concord, Brentwood, Richmond, or Antioch should:
• Keep the plant in its original pot and away from other plants.
• Do not plant it in the ground.
• If possible, place the plant in two sealed trash bags.
• Do not move, return, throw away, or compost the plant.
Call the Contra Costa County Department of Agriculture / Weights & Measures at (925) 608-6600 for pickup instructions and additional guidance. County staff may also place monitoring traps at affected properties.
| | Glassy Winged Sharpshooter pictured above. | | |
To read the full Press Release visit HERE.
For more information, contact the Agricultural Commissioner’s Office at (925) 608-6600 or email at AgCommissioner@ag.cccounty.us
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Voter Resources - Get Ready for the
Primary Election on June 2nd
The June Primary Election is quickly approaching, and voters will help decide important statewide, congressional, legislative, local, and county races and measures. With many key offices and issues on the ballot, every vote matters.
Registered voters should have already received their vote-by-mail ballot with prepaid postage. Ballots can be returned by mail, placed in an official drop box, or cast in person on Election Day, Tuesday, June 2. Polls will remain open until 8 p.m.
Voters are encouraged to cast their ballots early to help counties process and count ballots efficiently. Residents can also sign up online to track their ballot and confirm it has been received and counted.
For locations of official ballot drop boxes in Contra Costa visit ContraCostaVote.gov.
Confirm nearby polling locations on the California Secretary of State's website sos.ca.gov/elections/polling-place.
Once you have voted, sign up to track your ballot at ballottrax.net.
All you need to provide is your name, date of birth, and zip code.
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Bay Area Bike Champions Named for 2026
Contra Costa County resident Maria “Downhill Diva” has been named the 2026 Contra Costa County Bike Champion of the Year by organizers of the Bay Area Bike to Wherever Days (BTWD).
Selected through public nominations, the award recognizes individuals who inspire bicycling and promote safer, more inclusive communities across the Bay Area. A Richmond resident, Maria “Downhill Diva” is known as an advocate and mentor dedicated to making East Bay cycling more welcoming, safe, and enjoyable for riders of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Congratulations to Maria on this well-deserved recognition and for her continued efforts to encourage healthy, active, and connected communities throughout Contra Costa County.
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Supervisor Candace Andersen (right) pictured with Maria “Downhill Diva,” and fellow Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) Commissioners, Alameda Mayor Marilyn Ezzy-Ashcraft and Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee.
The entire month of May is Bay Area Bike to Wherever Days, while Bike to Work/Wherever Day 2026 was held May 15th.
For a list of all Bay Area Bike to Wherever Day Winners for 2026 visit Bayareametro.gov.
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New CalFresh Requirements Start
June 1st
More CalFresh participants will need to work or participate in a community engagement activity to keep getting their food benefits.
Work requirements for able-bodied adults ages 18-64 receiving CalFresh will resume June 1st. This is known as the Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) rule.
To meet this new requirement, Contra Costa County CalFresh customers may need to:
- Work or volunteer an average of 20 hours per week (80 hours per month)
- Attend school or participate in a job training program
These changes do not affect all CalFresh recipients. To determine if your benefits are being impacted, to apply for benefits, or to learn more, visit CalFresh.
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Youth Ride Free is Back - No Application. No ID. No Passes. Get on and go!
Level up this summer with Youth Ride Free! Getting around Contra Costa County just got a whole lot easier (again). County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, and WestCAT are bringing back Youth Ride Free for summer 2026, giving youth 18 and under the freedom to ride any County Connection bus fare-free from June 1st through July 31st.
Coming soon: Youth Ride Free Leaderboard
Participants (13-18) are asked to log their trips on County Connection. When passengers participate, their trip count and miles traveled will post on the main leaderboard. Logging rides leads to prizes. More on that soon!
Simple, Easy, and Made for You(th)
Youth Ride Free is designed to be as easy as possible. Whether you are heading to a job, meeting up with friends, or exploring your community, hopping on the bus is all it takes. No paperwork, no lines, no hassle, just ride.
Why Youth Ride Free?
This program is about more than free fares—it’s about opening doors and creating opportunities for young people across our community.
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Enhance Mobility – Give youth the freedom to travel independently and confidently.
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Access Opportunities – Connect to jobs, libraries, parks, shopping centers, and more.
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Build Connections – Encourage social interaction while helping youth develop transit skills and confidence.
- Improve Service – Better understand how young riders travel to help shape the future of transit in Contra Costa County.
Remove Barriers, Roll Out the Welcome Mat
By eliminating fares, applications, and ID requirements, Youth Ride Free creates a truly open invitation for young riders. No fees. No forms. No catch. Just freedom to move.
Get on and go - we will see you on board this summer!
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First 5 Contra Costa Bringing Leaders Together on Child Care Solutions
First 5 Contra Costa hosted its Policy Breakfast on May 26th, bringing together community leaders, educators, advocates, and local partners for an important conversation focused on workforce supports for child care providers.
The event highlighted the essential role early childhood educators and child care professionals play in supporting working families, preparing children for lifelong success, and strengthening Contra Costa County’s local economy. Attendees discussed current challenges facing the child care workforce, including recruitment and retention, while exploring collaborative strategies to provide long-term support, professional development opportunities, and sustainable resources for providers across the county.
The Policy Breakfast served as an important opportunity for stakeholders to share ideas, strengthen partnerships, and reaffirm a collective commitment to investing in the future of children and families in Contra Costa County.
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Jennifer Quallick, Chief of Staff to Supervisor Andersen, pictured with Ruth Fernandez, Executive Director of First 5 Contra Costa, and Lynn Mackey, Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools, at First 5 Contra Costa’s Policy Breakfast in Pleasant Hill.
Click here to learn more about First 5 Contra Costa and how they
serve students in the county.
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Contra Costa Superior Court Announces New Public Viewing Stations
The Contra Costa Superior Court is providing public viewing stations at each court location. These kiosk stations allow members of the public to view electronic court records, including pleadings, orders, and other case file documents, and to print documents as needed.
For most case types, records may be accessed from a kiosk at any Court location. Juvenile records will only be available at the Walnut Creek courthouse, and only upon the requestor providing proper identification verifying legal entitlement to review such records. Likewise, confidential and sealed records will not be provided through kiosks.
There will be no cost to view court records at the kiosks. However, there will be a fee of $0.50 per page for printed documents. To ensure availability for all users, staff may impose reasonable time limits on kiosk usage.
To read the full Press Release visit Contracosta.courts.ca.gov.
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Elder Abuse Awareness Fair
The Contra Costa Elder Abuse Prevention Project is sponsoring a FREE Resource Fair on June 9th. The Elder Abuse Awareness Fair marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Month, featuring resources, prevention tips, and support services for seniors.
Topics will include how to stay safe from elder abuse and you will have the opportunity to speak with community based organizations who can answer your questions. Take home free guides and information. Open to all adults - just stop by!
Tuesday, June 9th
Anytime between 10 AM - 1 PM
Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle
Click here to learn more about Contra Costa Elder Abuse Prevention Project
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Heads-up for Visitors and Neighbors of Tilden Regional Park
The Moraga-Orinda Fire District and regional partner agencies will conduct multi-agency wildland fire training exercises at Tilden Regional Park from 8 AM to 5: PM on June 3rd and June 5th.
Visitors and nearby residents may see fire personnel, law enforcement, emergency vehicles, and equipment in the area. This is a planned training exercise, not an emergency. No live fire or smoke will be used.
The annual drill, conducted for more than 25 years, helps ensure a coordinated regional response to wildland fires in and around Tilden Regional Park.
To read the full Press Release visit HERE.
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Community Health Assessment 2026
Across Contra Costa, community partners are coming together to better understand how residents are doing, what helps boost well-being, and what may be making well-being harder to reach. At the heart of this Community Health Assessment is a commitment to ensure voices from across our communities are heard, valued, and reflected in what is shaped, prioritized, and invested in next.
Contra Costa Health is working with our community partners as a network to ensure that voices from across our communities are heard and reflected.
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Make your voice heard and help shape future public health programs and services. Survey is available in several languages.
Visit HERE to start health survey and for your chance to win a $50 gift card!
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Siesta Valley Bowl Season Kick Off Event
The Siesta Valley Bowl is tucked into the Orinda hills, home to the former Cal Shakes and Bruns Amphitheater. The Siesta Valley Foundation is dedicated to preserving and revitalizing this unique East Bay watershed and its historic amphitheater, ensuring it remains a place of environmental stewardship, cultural expression, and public benefit.
Siesta Valley Bowl's inaugural season kicks off on May 30th, with a performance featuring Talking Heads tribute band, Burning Down the House.
Click here for more information and to purchase tickets.
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Reference Solutions Database Availabe at Contra Costa Libraries
Attention job seekers, small business owners, and entrepreneurs: the Library offers free access to Reference Solutions, a powerful research database that provides in-depth information on more than 86 million businesses across the United States and Canada.
Users can search detailed company profiles, including financial data, sales estimates, industry classifications, news articles, employee statistics, and potential job openings. This resource can be especially valuable for those exploring career opportunities, conducting market research, identifying business leads, or developing strategies for growth.
Available at no cost with a library card, Reference Solutions is a valuable tool to help the community make informed decisions, discover opportunities, and better understand the regional and national business landscape.
Visit the Digital Resources page at ccclib.org to get started.
| | ♪ ♫ Summer Concert Series Throughout District 2 ♫ ♪ | | |
District 2 Volunteer Opportunity
Behavioral Health Board
One District 2 Family Member Seat Available
Proposition 1, passed in April 2024, included legislation mandating transformation of the public behavioral health system. Provisions of SB 326 included implementation of an integrated Behavioral Health Board. This integrated advisory body is to include designated members of the community prepared to address community mental health and substance use treatment services.
The mandated functions of the Behavioral Health Board include to:
- Review and evaluate the local public mental health system, the local public substance use disorder treatment system, the community’s public behavioral health needs, services, facilities, and special problems where services are being provided
- Advise the Board of Supervisors and the Behavioral Health Director on community mental health and substance use disorder services.
- Review county agreements, adopted Behavioral Health Services Act plan and make recommendations to the local behavioral health agency.
- Ensure citizen and professional involvement at all stages
- Submit an annual report.
- Review and recommend appointment of the local director of behavioral health services.
- Review and comment on county’s performance outcome date
- Assess the impact of the realignment of services.
- Conduct a public hearing on the draft three-year program and expenditure plan and annual updates at the close of the 30-day comment period required by subdivision.
- Provide an annual report of written explanations to the local governing body and Department of Health Care Service.
Submit an Application.
Click here for information on volunteering for an advisory board.
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County Wide Volunteer Opportunity
Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council
The Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council (JJCC) is a multi-agency advisory body that contributes to the development and implementation of a countywide juvenile justice plan. It is composed of several critical parts: an assessment of existing law enforcement, probation, education, mental health, health, social services, drugs, alcohol, and youth resources, which specifically target both at-promise, as well as system involved youth, and their families.
The JJCC will also coordinate the work of governmental and non-governmental organizations engaged in activities designed to reduce the incidence of juvenile crime and delinquency in the greater community. Further, the JJCC will develop information and intelligence sharing systems to ensure county actions are fully coordinated and equipped to provide data and appropriate outcome measures.
There is one At Large Seat and one Youth Representative Seat available. Applicants must either live or work in Contra Costa County. Applications are due by 5PM on Monday, July 6th, Interviews will be either in person, or via zoom, at the July 20th Public Protection Committee.
Click here to submit an Application.
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